1981 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Ford Focus
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (79 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 321 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Ford Focus (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2005 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Focus |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2650 mm |
